Willow Glen Resident
News
Developer bucks high-density trend, only builds nine homes
By Mayra Flores De Marcotte
Plans to construct nine single-family attached homes at the corner of Willow Glen and Cross ways moved a step closer toward construction.
The planned-development permit was unanimously approved by San Jose City Council on May 1.
"We're pleased," said Tim Henderson, H3 Development partner. "We carefully crafted the project to respond to its surroundings."
The project will include two and three-story townhomes on a 0.34-acre site. It will be built between a duplex and the Willow Glen Villas, a senior housing facility. Each unit will be designed with a two-car garage and the project will include onsite parking.
The development will have a traditional Mediterranean design. Architectural elements will include Roman tiled roofs, chimneys, arches and stepped roofs.
"The project is crafted to fit with the surrounding architecture," Henderson said. "We wanted to do a project with a pleasing design, considerable curb appeal and optimal floor plans."
The developer will demolish the existing buildings on the site, which include a mix of dilapidated sheds, storage areas and a single-family house.
Although the site is zoned for high-density residential--which allows for up to 50 units per acre--Henderson said H3 Development decided on the lower density to keep the project consistent with the neighborhood.
Developers did not hold community meetings on this project because of lack of interest, Henderson said.
As per city requirements, developers sent out fliers to the surrounding neighbors and homeowners, and information about the project was posted on the planning department's website.
"We have sought response," Henderson said.
After community outreach was done, however, the planning department received only one call with one question about the project, Henderson said.
"We are very happy to meet with whomever," he said. "I think that the support of planning staff and the unanimous recommendation at the hearing speaks for itself."
